Healthways

Heard a pop in your shoulder? 🔊

That doesn't automatically mean you tore your rotator cuff.

A recent study found that feeling or hearing a pop was not associated with a rotator cuff tear. Instead, older age and pre-existing tendon degeneration were more strongly associated with these findings.

The good news: a pop is not a diagnosis.

If you're dealing with shoulder pain, a thorough evaluation can help determine the cause of your symptoms and guide next steps.



Source: Ramtin S, Jayakumar, et al. Clinics in shoulder and elbow. May 2026.